Inter Miami Forward Had Message For Messi After Blockbuster MLS Trade

“Leo has been an important player for Inter Miami over the past three years," said President of Football Operations Raúl Sanllehí. "His contributions in attack were key throughout a historic period in which we clinched our first two titles."

Campana took to Instagram to share his own emotions about his departure from the 2024 Supporters' Shield winners, with a notable remark for Messi.

"Today came the day to say goodbye to Inter Miami," Campana wrote in Spanish. "It has been 3 incredible years in which I was very happy."

"I had the privilege of sharing the pitch with people I never imagined sharing, especially with the greatest of all time (Messi)," the Ecuadorian striker added as a nod to his captain.

Campana, 24, signed for Inter Miami before the 2022 season and went on to become one of just three players in club history to reach the 100 appearance milestone. He scored 32 goals in 100 appearances across all competitions. 

He ranked as the Herons' all-time leading goalscorer until Messi dethroned him with a historic hat trick on MLS Decision Day on Oct. 19.

Despite his contributions to the fledgling club's success, the offer for Campana was too good to pass up. The GAM money gives Inter Miami flexibility to offset salaries and plug holes in its uniquely expensive roster. 

"The General Allocation Money will allow us to continue to strengthen our roster for the 2025 Season,” Sanllehí noted after the trade.

Campana was one of the team's three Designated Players (along with Messi and Sergio Busquets) whose salaries are allowed exceed the $683,750 cap set by MLS rules. 

With that DP slot now available, Inter Miami has the freedom to consider high-budget transfer options. They have been linked with free agent Paul Pogba, Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne and Al-Hilal forward Neymar, among others.